6 Tips for planning a Winter Wedding
Winter can be one of the most romantic times to get married. The low light can be absolutely beautiful at sunset and combined with cosy fires, seasonal decorations, festoon lights and warming food it’s no wonder Winter weddings are so popular now.
Here are 6 tips to help you get the most from your day.
Layer up - Stock up on all the warm accessorises & blankets. For you, the bridal party and guests, these are essential for walks to keep cosy between photos and for keeping toasty in the wedding cars. Long ivory coats or denim/leather jackets can add to quirky photos, shawls or dresses with long sleeves for brides and velvet jackets for grooms will add a thicker layer than normal suit jackets.
2. Timing is everything - Consider having an early(ish) ceremony. If you are planning a Winter wedding I would recommend a ceremony start time of no later than 12/12.30pm. (especially if you have to travel two different places) In the Winter the sun can set as early as 3.30pm depending on the weather that day so this ensures you have enough daylight hours left for family & bridal portraits outside after you’ve tied the knot.
3. Allow extra travel time for peace of mind - Following on from number 1, factor in your travel time to the venue for you and guests, in the event of snow or heavy rain. Some even consider the same venue for ceremony and reception in the Winter to ease the pressure and make it as easy as possible for guests to attend.
4. If you aren’t into traditions consider a first look - Where the two of you meet before the ceremony to spend some time together and make the most of having portraits taken in natural light. This can be such a special moment to photograph and it leaves you with even more time to mingle with guests later in the day.
5. Add in all the magical lights - There’s never enough fairy lights, candles or lanterns in my opinion and these will only add to your cosy atmosphere at the venue, inside and out. If you have a December wedding you may already get the bonus of Christmas trees and extra lights at the venue. You can also do sparkler photos or check if the venue has any funky outdoor lighting to use.
6. Go with the flow - Winter weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared to embrace it! There is a high chance it could rain (like any month of the year) be cold or windy, but if you take this in your stride and don’t let it ruin your day, I promise you can still get amazing pictures at the end of it. Stocking up on clear, white or coloured umbrellas and checking beforehand if your venue has the indoor space with a wet weather plan for photos can really help on the day. Don’t forget the WELLIES for snow!
I hope you found these tips helpful.
If you are looking for a photographer for your Winter wedding I would love to talk to you about your plans. Get in touch here and drop me a line! :)